Trading has been bullish in WellPoint Health Networks and Health Net since early Friday morning, as the rumor mill goes into overdrive. Both health insurers are up in an ugly tape, though the option activity is much greater in WellPoint.

A terrific day, with 3 stocks advancing for every 1 declining, volume moderate, as we again approach the highs for the year. It's been a fairly broad advance, with particularly strength in financials and cyclicals like consumer discretionary and industrials.

The Dow briefly popped above 11,000 -- the first time it's reached that mark since September 2008 -- before settling a few points below. Chevron blazed the trail, making energy one of the day's best performers. Palm surged amid takeover rumors.

The Dow continued rising toward 11,000 Friday as the dollar fell after a Greek official said the debt-riddled nation has not yet sought financial aid. Energy and consumer discretionary were among the best performers.

Stocks ended sharply higher Tuesday after a late rally as investors cheered a better-than-expected existing-home sales report. The Dow gained over 100 points, led by Kraft and Pfizer. Health insurers gave back some of its gains after the prior session's rally.